Preparing to "Take the Kingdom": Childrearing Directives in Early Mormonism

Abstract

The Mormon family, in many ways, mirrored the familialism of most mid-nineteenth century American households. It was patriarchal in regard to governing authority; yet, while its women commonly assumed a secondary role in public, they ever so discreetly took a major role in running the home. And Mormon children were, like other antebellum children, seen as the heirs-apparent of the bounties of the culture. Much of the sect's thought on child nurture was similar to the patterns of the larger society, but in some very important ways Mormon childrearing attitudes differed significantly. It will be the purpose of this study to compare the child nurture philosophy of Mormon parents with that of their counterparts in the early American republic. Recorded attitudes on childrearing are really a reflection of adult society. Therefore this treatise will focus upon the advice rendered to Mormon mothers and fathers as well as community expectations of parents and children rather than upon the daily life of young Latter-day Saints. Mormon child nurture activities will be contrasted with the standard practices of pre-Civil War America. Such a comparison will not only enhance